Anti-annexation bill delayed in Tennessee Senate

Anti-annexation bill delayed in Tennessee Senate

NASHVILLE - A controversial anti-annexation measure was delayed this morning until Monday.

Sen. Bo Watson, R-Hixson, the bill's sponsor, agreed to postpone debate on the bill at the request of Sen. Steve Dickerson, R-Nashville.

The bill originally required that cities wishing to annex new territory must first hold a referendum for people living in the affected area.

Under an amendment, that has been changed to a moratorium on all annexations through June 30, 2015, so officials can do a comprehensive study on the state of annexation in Tennessee and the impacts of the state's 15-year-old urban growth law.

"I've received a large number of phone calls, emails and visits about this bill," Dickerson said. "And my constituents have some concerns on this."

In agreeing to the delay, Watson called the bill "a very important piece of legiation and i think everyone is now realizing that. And I would encourage members to have discussions with me or others."